Colorado’s dry season does not come cheap. In Colorado, a human-caused wildfire destroyed one home and forced 700 others to evacuate. To put out the fire, firefighters are working against the clock and the elements. The fire started Monday morning and has destroyed 166 acres. The wildfire is being investigated as an arson.
Wildfire erupts in Central Colorado.
A devastating wildfire has broken out in central Colorado, destroying one home and threatening hundreds more in its path. The fire, which started on Monday afternoon in the Highland Lakes Subdivision northwest of Divide, has already destroyed 166 acres of densely wooded residential land. As of Tuesday, firefighters had achieved 15% containment, but the situation was still precarious.
Due to the fire’s rapid spread, authorities have issued mandatory evacuation orders for approximately 700 homes in the affected area. The total value of the evacuated properties is estimated to be $300 million, highlighting the potential economic impact if the fire spreads unchecked.
Approximately 700 homes are under mandatory evacuation orders after a wildfire sparked in Divide on Monday, according to the Teller County Sheriff’s Office. https://t.co/LYu4yqofuU
— The Denver Post (@denverpost) October 29, 2024
Firefighting Efforts and Challenges
To put out the fire, a large firefighting operation is underway. Ground crews are working tirelessly to protect homes and build fire lines, while air tankers are dispatched to drop water on the flames from above. Despite their efforts, firefighters face significant challenges, particularly due to unpredictable weather conditions.
“We’re doing everything possible to get this fire knocked down quickly and under control, because we are worried about the turn in the weather.” – Sheriff Jason Marksell
While recent rainfall has provided some relief, there are still concerns about changing wind patterns, which may impede containment efforts. Additionally, while snow is predicted, authorities warn that it may not be enough to completely extinguish the fire.
A wildfire in Divide, Colorado is threatening hundreds of homes as it continues to grow. https://t.co/OeYG73qmSG
— Daily Press (@VVDailyPress) October 29, 2024
Impact on Residents and Community
Many residents are scrambling to secure essential items in the wake of the sudden evacuation. In response, authorities have temporarily permitted evacuees to return home to retrieve critical medications and medical devices. This measure is intended to alleviate some of the immediate hardships experienced by those displaced by the fire.
Local officials are considering making arrangements for evacuees to collect mailed ballots if they are unable to return to their homes by Wednesday. This step demonstrates the community’s commitment to ensuring that the disaster does not prevent residents from participating in upcoming elections.
Investigation of Fire’s Origin
As firefighters battle the blaze, new questions emerge about its origin. Authorities have confirmed that the fire is believed to be man-made and are investigating it as a possible criminal act. However, it is unclear whether the fire was started accidentally or on purpose.
“We are treating this as a criminal act.” – Sheriff Jason Marksell.
The investigation into the cause of the fire is still ongoing, with law enforcement agencies working hard to uncover the circumstances that led to this devastating event. As the community deals with the immediate threat of the fire, the possibility that it was caused by criminal activity adds to the concern and urgency of the situation.
As firefighters battle the Divide wildfire, the Colorado community’s resilience is put to the test. With homes and livelihoods at stake, the next few days will be critical in determining the full scope of this disaster and the path to recovery for those affected.
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